Step 1: Apply to Positions

I secured my first job with a BS in Chemistry via Craigslist during the depths of the Great Recession in 2009. While conducting research with Andrei Vedernikov's group, I had the summer to find work and was living in a local family's home for $300 a month. This was an incredibly stressful period. After applying for jobs since late 2008, I was losing hope due to the massive recession, the worst since the Great Depression.

My undergraduate experience wasn’t lacking—I had interned with the Smithsonian for two years and published a paper. However, due to budget cuts, a potential job offer vanished. This led me to research under Professor Vedernikov, where I published another paper. Despite being turned down for graduate school at the University of Maryland, I was not ready for that commitment at the time.

While applying for jobs on every site I could find, including Craigslist, my morale was low. I was resigned to giving up, but eventually, I secured an interview and landed my first job.

Step 2: Attend Conferences and Career Fairs

My second job materialized during my final months in graduate school. A peer and collaborator in my PhD program had turned down a position at Hexion in Louisville, Kentucky, so I thought I’d give it a shot. After applying and undergoing a screening interview, I was ghosted. Just before attending an American Chemical Society Conference in San Diego, I learned the job had been canceled—right as I was boarding my flight.

The ACS conference had a rather disappointing career fair that year, with only two companies hiring for roles aligned with my background: Georgia Pacific and Hexion. I managed to secure interviews with both and ultimately received an offer from Hexion shortly after.

Step 3: Network and Engage Recruiters

My next position post-Hexion arose through LinkedIn. My fiancée and I were looking to leave Kentucky, and I sought recruiters specializing in the chemical industry. Connecting with recruiters can simplify the job search; they can act as a bridge between you and potential employers.

If you're uncertain about a specific sector within the chemical industry, reach out to professionals in that field. Nowadays, job seekers have more tools at their disposal than ever before.

Step 4: Always Follow Up

My current position was obtained by persistent follow-ups. After feeling unfulfilled in my job, I started applying again, focusing on the DC area. I mistakenly applied for a position that was actually in Cambridge, Massachusetts. After clarifying my interest, I kept the door open for future opportunities, which eventually led to an on-site interview a few weeks later.

Step 1: Own Your Resume

My initial job after graduation was partly due to my comprehensive knowledge of my resume. Interviewing against PhD chemists, I shared my research experiences confidently, demonstrating depth and clarity. Remember, while interviewers may have more expertise, you are the best authority on your own background.

Step 2: Prepare for Questions

During technical presentations, be ready to address a range of questions, even those that seem trivial or irrelevant. Anticipate the type of inquiries you might face, and use your slides to guide the discussion.

Step 3: Prepare for the Unexpected

In one instance, I interviewed candidates informally at a hotel bar, asking technical questions to gauge their knowledge. The first candidate struggled, while the second adeptly reasoned through my inquiries, ultimately earning the job. Be prepared for unconventional interview settings.

Step 4: Ask Insightful Questions

An interview is a mutual exchange. Ask thoughtful questions to demonstrate your interest and to gather insights about the company culture and expectations. This not only showcases your curiosity but also helps you assess if the role aligns with your career goals.

Step 5: Research Thoroughly

Investigate the interviewers and the company beforehand. Familiarize yourself with their products and recent developments. This effort can help you craft relevant questions and demonstrate your commitment.

Step 6: Show Gratitude

Always send thank-you emails post-interview. A simple acknowledgment can leave a positive impression. I once followed up after fumbling a question and received praise for my initiative; that interaction helped me secure my job.

Notes

This marks my first attempt at providing career advice based on my journey as a chemist. I’m eager to explore more topics related to careers in future newsletters. If you found this helpful, please let me know in the comments, subscribe, or share it with others.